Scooby, a young rottweiler, bled to death in the back garden of a house in Shadowbrook Avenue, Wythenshawe, after having her throat cut. The attack took place in the early hours of Sunday, August 27.

Scooby's owner, Melanie Basra, said she couldn't believe it when she found Scooby's body after returning from a night out.

"I am devastated and sickened that anyone could do this to a defenceless animal. No words can describe how I feel. I have been so traumatised thinking about those last agonising moments she must have endured."

RSPCA Inspector Judy Thornber, who attended the incident, said: "This is one of the saddest things I have ever come across during my time as an RSPCA inspector.

"If anyone saw, heard or knows anything about this incident we are keen to hear from them urgently. The sooner we get to the bottom of this shocking case the better."

Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA cruelty and advice line on 0870 5555 999. Calls are in confidence.